After Whelping for Dogs

The puppies must be cleaned behind every
time they feed. This stimulates the passage of urine and feces; without
the stimulation they will not pass excreta and may become fatally
constipated. This is one of the bitch's jobs. If she has been under
anesthetic, she may not realize this. Holding the puppy tail first to her
will quickly teach her the routine.

Normally, the bitch remains with her puppies
constantly for at least the first couple of weeks. There may be difficulty
in persuading her to leave them even for her own natural functions. If
this is the case, don't worry. She will go eventually. Let her do it in
her own time.

A healthy bitch with puppies quickly
develops a large appetite. For the first few days it may be necessary to
feed her in or very close to her bed, but make sure there is plenty of
food available, and particularly plenty of fluids. She may prefer milk.
Forget the once a day feeding routine, let her have food whenever she
wants it. She has an enormous task.